School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
December 19, 2025
Issue 28
In this issue, Yohan G., Juliana M., Gabrielle M., Laura O., Richlynn I., and Maria P., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Lighting the Candles...
The Advent Season at Holy Cross
By: Laura Oppedisano
The Christmas season is upon us once again, and Holy Cross is celebrating the spirit of Advent with celebrations that unite the school community! This year’s Advent celebrations highlighted the Advent themes of hope, love, joy, and peace, and continued meaningful school traditions.
Big Ideas...
Winter Holy Cross Market Fair: A Taste of the Holidays
By: Yohan Ghadiali
With Christmas right around the corner, what better way to get into the Christmas spirit than the Winter Holy Cross Market Fair! On the 2nd and 4th of December, the Grade 10 Business students set up their own businesses for everyone in the school to enjoy delicious treats. Using everything that students learned throughout the course, they experienced what it was like running a business.
Big ideas...
Grade 10 Business Market Fair Showcases Creativity, Teamwork, and Entrepreneurship
By: Gabrielle Mielko
This year’s Grade 10 Business Market fair was a huge success, turning the school’s atrium into a lively marketplace filled with energy, creativity, and delicious food. As a part of their business course, Grade 10 students worked in groups to put together a business plan and bring it to life. Each team created marketing strategies, and prepared, unique and exciting food and treats to sell to staff and students during the fair.
The Show Must Go On...
Holy Cross Brings Clue to the Big Stage
By: Laura Oppedisano
On November 27th, Holy Cross’ drama students delivered an amazing performance of the classic mystery-comedy Clue at the YCDSB Centre for the Arts. Based on the board game and film, the play followed a group of characters caught in a series of misunderstandings and plot twists, leaving the audience intrigued until the very end.
Hawks Helping Out...
Warm Generosity During the Cold Season
By: Richlynn Imo
Think about how lucky this school community is to have each other. At Holy Cross, every student, staff member, authority figure—everyone in general—can depend on others. Whether it is during hard times or simply when in need of advice. Students have Guidance Counsellors when they need assistance. Staff members use teamwork to excel in their jobs and to perform at their best ability for the students.
Holy Cross Presents...
Building Bonds at the BSA Social
By: Maria Pitan
For the first time in Holy Cross history, the Black Students’ Association hosted its very own Members' Social. Transforming a regular afternoon in the school library into a vibrant union of games, conversation, and cultural celebration. The event was designed to inspire connections, relaxation, and engagement among club members and participating teachers in a fun and welcoming environment.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
November 28, 2025
Issue 27
In this issue, Yohan G., Juliana M., and Maria P., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Hawks Helping Out...
Hawks Closet Supporting Families at Parent Teacher Interviews
By: Juliana Muzzi
On Thursday, November 20th during Parent Teacher Interviews, parents and students had the opportunity to visit Hawks Closet, Holy Cross’ non-profit second-hand uniform organization. Hawks Closet takes new and gently used uniform items and sells them to members of the school community at a lower price with the help of a team of dedicated volunteers.
Remembrance Day...
Remembrance Day at Holy Cross
By: Yohan Ghadiali
Gone…but not forgotten. Throughout history, many people have risked their lives and fought in war for freedom and peace in our world. On November 11, people around the world remember the men and women who fought for us and those who are still fighting for freedom to this day. During the day, we honour those soldiers by wearing a poppy. Many students wore these to show their respect to those who have fought and died in war.
New Year, New Hawk...
The Gym's Visual Makeover
By: Maria Pitan
Anyone walking past the gym this month has probably noticed the smell of fresh paint, the mystery of taped-off doors, and the anticipation of big changes to come. The Holy Cross gym has finally been renovated.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
November 7, 2025
Issue 26
In this issue, Yohan G., Juliana M., Richlynn I., Alyssa P., and Alessia S., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Giving Thanks...
Holy Cross Gives Thanks; Our Thanksgiving Food Drive
By: Alyssa Paternostro
As the Thanksgiving season approached, the Holy Cross community came together once again to celebrate one of the most meaningful times of the year. A time for generosity, gratitude and giving back, Thanksgiving is not just about turkey dinners and pumpkin pie, it is about appreciating what we have and sharing with those in need. It is a season that encourages us to pause, reflect and recognize the many blessings in our lives.
Everything Cross Can Offer...
Your HCCA Club Hotspot!
By: Richlynn Imo
On October 7th, Holy Cross hosted the annual Club Fair in the atrium, showcasing a wide variety of extracurricular options for the fantastic students who wish to show this school their excellent talents! Many schools host Club Fairs as unique opportunities to get students interested in the many different extracurriculars that their school has to offer them.
A Night of Achievements...
Award's Night at Holy Cross
By: Alessia Savino
On October 9th, Holy Cross hosted its annual Awards Night, dedicated to the achievements of our hardworking and talented students. Friends and families filled the gymnasium to see their loved ones receive their awards. The evening began with the national anthem and a prayer reflection from the reading of the Gospel according to St. Matthew. Prior to the distribution of awards, students were treated to a heartfelt speech, acknowledging their hard work. As awards were called, applause always filled the room. Congratulations to everyone who received an award that night!
Sweet Victory...
Thanksgiving Apple Picking with the Youth Group
By: Yohan Ghadiali
Thanksgiving is finally here and what better way to give back to the community and partake in a traditional fall activity like apple picking! On the 9th of October, the Youth Group went on a trip to a local apple orchard and spent the day picking the apples for donations. The apples were packed in bags and donated to the Good Shepherd Food Bank and used to give apples and apple treats like apple pie, jam, and cider to those in need on the Thanksgiving weekend.
Hawks in Costume ...
Halloween at Holy Cross
By: Juliana Muzzi
During the last week of October, Holy Cross was filled with Halloween spirit as students and staff came together to celebrate this exciting time of year. The school was decked out with festive Halloween decorations and Student Government put together several fun events for the entire school community. The week began with the Door Decorating Contest, where homeroom classes competed to decorate the spookiest and most creative Halloween-themed doors. Each door wowed the judges and made for a tough competition.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
June 16, 2025
Issue 25
In this issue, Yohan G., Juliana M., and Alyssa P., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Stop Stressing, Play With Puppies...
Exam Prep, Cross Style: Therapy Dogs take over Cross!
By: Alyssa Paternostro
On June 6, Holy Cross hosted our annual, and very much welcomed, interruption to the usual exam prep panic, two adorable therapy dogs turning our stress into smiles! St. John therapy dogs came to cross and made an impact on students for the day. Meet Bear, a three-year-old Golden Retriever with the softest fur and sweetest soul. Don’t forget his mama, Addison, a majestic Bernese Mountain Dog who made every student feel like her best friend.
A Day In The Sun...
Food Truck Day At Holy Cross
By: Juliana Muzzi
There is no better way to kickoff the start of summer than the much-anticipated Food Truck Day at Holy Cross. Organized by the dedicated members of Student Government, students were able to enjoy a lunch or sweet treat from the variety of delicious food trucks available. From savoury options like burgers and pizza to sweet options like churros and ice cream treats, there was an option for everyone's preferences. The crowds were crazy with long lineups at each truck, showing the excitement within the school community for this fun day.
A Taste of Summer...
Summer Holy Cross Market Fair: The Sweet Taste of Summer
By: Yohan Ghadiali
Summer vacation is almost here (Finally)! What better way to get into the summer feeling than the Holy Cross Summer Market Fair. Ending the semester for the grade 10 business class, the students all created businesses which sold many summer themed treats ranging from cold drinks, milkshakes, and snowcones, to mouthwatering grilled cheese sandwiches and delicious crepes.
A Taste of Summer...
Holy Cross Market Fair: A Sweet (and Savoury) Success
By: Alyssa Paternostro
Every semester, the halls of Holy Cross come alive with the smell of sizzling snacks, sugary treats and excitement – yup, it’s MarketFair season again! Hosted by the grade 10 business classes, Market Fair is a Holy Cross tradition where students put their entrepreneurship skills to the test! Their mission? Create delicious food stalls, market their brand, and serve their creations to their peers. This first week of the Market Fair didn’t disappoint! The atrium was transformed into a food festival, offering everything from rich, creamy tiramisu to warm mini pancakes drizzled in syrup.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
May 30, 2025
Issue 24
In this issue, Yohan G., Juliana M., and Santiago O., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Graduating Hawks...
Grade 12 Blue Jays Trip Marks Another Great Memory for Graduating Class
By: Santiago Ortega
On May 22, the Holy Cross grade 12s took a trip to the Rogers Centre to see the Toronto Blue Jays face off against the San Diego Padres. Leaving the school at 11:00 AM, our seniors were in for a great experience and game. The dome at the Rogers Centre shielded them from the rain, and with seats right next to the right field foul line, they were guaranteed an amazing view all game, and what a game it was.
A Day In The Sun...
Physics in Motion at Canada's Wonderland
By: Juliana Muzzi
On Thursday, May 8th, the grade 11 and 12 physics students took a trip to Canada’s Wonderland for the park’s opening day. Although the weather was a little cold, students were still able to enjoy all of their favourite thrills with short wait times. Due to this trip, students were able to understand how the key concepts of physics are present in real-world applications, particularly in amusement parks. Just by riding the attractions alone, students were able to grasp a good understanding of which physics concepts were present on the ride.
An End To An Era...
Friday Morning Mass: In Loving Memory of Pope Francis
By: Yohan Ghadiali
The Catholic Church mourns the passing of our beloved Pope Francis, the symbol of the Catholic Church itself. On the 25th of April, the school held a special morning Mass in memory of Pope Francis. Everyone gathered in the cafeteria as we began the funeral mass for the passing of the Pope. Once the mass began, Father Joshua delivered the sermon and prayed to God for Pope Francis and for the election of the new Pope.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
April 30, 2025
Issue 23
In this issue, Yohan G., Juliana M., and Laura O., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Go Hawks Go...
The Waterloo Math Team Competition at the YCDSB
By: Juliana Muzzi
On Thursday, April 10th, the Holy Cross Mathletes team traveled to the YCDSB board office in Aurora to participate in the 2nd annual YCDSB Waterloo Math Team Competition. Over 100 students from various high schools in the area attended, in teams of 6 from grades 9-12, to take part in this skill-testing competition. As part of the competition, teams were to participate in 3 rigorous events that would greatly test their knowledge in mathematics. The first event was the relay event, the most amusing, where each team broke up into subgroups of 3 to answer the questions at hand.
A Night To Remember...
Semi Formal at Holy Cross
By: Laura Oppedisano
On April 10th, Holy Cross’ grade 11s experienced a fun and memorable night filled with dancing, laughter, and quality time with friends. This event was held at PrimaVera Event Space, beautifully decorated to match this year’s theme, “A Golden Gala.” Each table was decorated with a large gold balloon centrepiece. Each student who attended also received their own personalized light-up foam stick, which was used on the dance floor all night.
Hawks Helping Out...
Youth Group Trip: Helping Hands at Canadian Food for Children
By: Yohan Ghadiali
On April 16, 2025, the Youth Group went on a day trip to help at the Canadian Food for Children (CFFC) warehouse. The CFFC organization is a charity which delivers food and other supplies to people in need. The charity has donated to thousands not only in the area but around the world!
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
March 28, 2025
Issue 22
In this issue, Yohan G., Juliana M., and Laura O., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
New Experiences...
Ordinandi Youth Event: The Future of the Catholic Church
By: Yohan Ghadiali
On the 18th of March, 15 students in the Holy Cross Youth Group were invited to be a part of the Ordinandi Youth event of 2025. The Ordinandi event celebrates the newly deaconed priests who will be ordained in the spring. This event took place in a luxurious banquet hall with hundreds of other schools all across Ontario. This event not only celebrates the ordination of the deacons, but also bonds the Catholic school community through Christ.
A Night to Remember...
A Night at the Golden Gala
By: Juliana Muzzi
Holy Cross’ highly anticipated grade 11 Semi-Formal is quickly approaching, taking place on April 10th at the Primavera Event Space in Woodbridge. This year’s theme will be “A Golden Gala” inspired by grandeur and sophistication associated with the colour gold that will create a night of elegance for the party guests. There are so many things to look forward to at this event! Whether it be preserving memories at the photobooth, dancing the night away, jamming to the songs, or having fun with friends, there is no shortage of fun at this event.
Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving...
The Lenten Season at Holy Cross
By: Laura Oppedisano
Holy Cross began the Lenten season with a virtual Ash Wednesday Mass, which gave students and staff time for reflection, prayer, and spiritual renewal. While the Mass was online, Holy Cross staff invited students to receive ashes in the chapel throughout Ash Wednesday. The staff welcomed students during all three lunches, providing a quiet space for reflection and prayer. The distribution of ashes allowed students to participate in a significant Lenten tradition and experience the importance of repentance.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
February 28, 2025
Issue 21
In this issue, Yohan G., is covering school events run by students and their classes.
Black Heritage Month...
Celebrating our Community, Celebrating our History
By: Yohan Ghadiali
February 2025 marks the 49th anniversary of Black Heritage month, initiated in February 1976, where communities celebrate all the African-heritage people throughout history and currently who make a difference in our community. Holy Cross took this opportunity to celebrate Black History month through various activities held throughout February. With each daily morning announcement, the school highlighted a historic person of African-heritage who made a difference in the world. The announcements would cover some background context, a mini biography on the person, and the impact they had on the community.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
January 22, 2025
Issue 20
In this issue, Laura O., and Juliana M., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Math Minds....
The Holy Cross Mathletes
By: Juliana Muzzi
Do you have a passion for mathematics and are interested in solving complex math problems individually or in teams? If the answer is yes, then the Holy Cross Mathletes might be a great fit for you! The Holy Cross Mathletes brings together like minded students who want to showcase their skills in mathematics and compete in several competitions. To begin preparing for the upcoming events, meetings are held after school every Wednesday in room 219 from January to April, where students get the opportunity to practice questions similar to what is asked of at the actual competitions. These meetings are a great way to become familiar with testing and question styles that could be seen later on.
Don't Stress, Study...
Your Guide to a Stress-Free Exam Season
By: Laura Oppedisano
Exam season is just around the corner yet again and stress often overwhelms the best of us. But with the right strategies, you can confidently walk into your exams! Before you start looking at your notes, create a study schedule! Schedules are a very efficient way to manage large workloads and stay on track. Dividing your time realistically is also helpful, as it allows you to focus on more challenging subjects.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
December 20, 2024
Issue 19
In this issue, Raphael J., Jazelle V., Laura O., Yohan G., Madison B., and Juliana M., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Let's Reflect...
A Season of Reflection at Holy Cross
By: Laura Oppedisano
The Christmas season is upon us once again, and Holy Cross is celebrating the spirit of Advent with celebrations that unite the school community! This year’s Advent celebrations highlighted the Advent themes of hope, love, joy, and peace, and continued meaningful school traditions.
Holy Cross Events...
Spreading the Christmas Spirit: Christmas Carolling
By: Kirsten Ymanuelle Legaspina
The Holy Cross Choir serenaded the residents of Aspira Villa Da Vinci Retirement Living on December 13, 2024 to spread the holiday cheer. The students had a brief meeting in the school’s music room to warm up as they prepared to walk to the retirement home. Some brought props to further radiate the Christmas spirit.
Hawks Paying It Forward...
Holy Cross’ Annual Gift Card Basket Drive
By: Juliana Muzzi
As the Christmas season is upon us, we should take time to reflect not only on ourselves, but on the lives of the less fortunate. Annually, Holy Cross participates in a Gift Card Basket Drive to support the less fortunate in our community. Each homeroom class sponsors a family that is in dire need of help during the Christmas season and donates money to buy a gift card for the family.
Holy Cross Events...
Holy Cross’s Market Fair (Week 1)
By: Jazelle Veron
In the first week of the Market Fair, there was the opportunity to try so many different foods, such as pancakes and candy kebabs! Now, the thing about the Market Fair that is great is that everything there is, well, affordable! All foods basically being around $2-$5! Also, the money made at the Market Fair goes to charity! This pretty much makes buying stuff from the Market Fair all the more worth it!
Holy Cross Presents...
Joyful Days Ahead: Celebrating Christmas Spirit Week
By: Raphael Jose
Holy Cross’ annual winter spirit week just took place. It has been a week filled with festive activities to spread holiday cheer. There have been lots of fun events planned for everyone to enjoy! The Christmas movie marathon has run all week in the cafeteria, during all three lunch periods. Whether you were in the mood for a classic or a comedy, there has been something for everyone.
Get Your Hot Chocolates Ready...
Winter Holy Cross Market Fair: A Taste of The Most Wonderful Time of The Year
By: Madison Bruch & Yohan Ghadiali
The Christmas holidays are finally here! To end the year with a Christmas spirit, the grade 10 business students conducted this year's Holy Cross Market Fair. This Market Fair is the CPT for the Introduction to Business course. On the 10th and 12th of December, Mr. Pasutto’s Grade 10 students created their own businesses and treated the Holy Cross community to a variety of delicious treats, ranging from tasty desserts, to refreshing, and warm beverages, to mouthwatering sandwiches.
School News
School News is a section of the Holy Cross Newspaper that covers events that happened in the month of each issue at the school and news regarding what is going on in the school. First-hand information from students within our school community will be shared here for students to reference and learn about what is happening around you.
November 26, 2024
Issue 18
In this issue, Kishan K., Jazelle V., Laura O., Candelaria J., Lillian F., Shaan S., and Julia Y., are covering school events run by students and their classes.
Hawks At Work...
Small Hands, Big Office: A Day At Work
By: Shaan Sukhija
Take Your Kid To Work Day is a special day when Grade 9s get to visit their parents and cousins' workplaces. It's an occasion that only comes 1 in the 4 years of highschool where you can explore different careers. This day is to learn about jobs, see many workplaces and a chance to see what career interests yourself.
Future Hawks In The Making...
Hawks in Action: Holy Cross Open House 2024
By: Lillian Ford
Holy Cross Catholic Academy welcomed potential students and their families to the school on Tuesday, November 26th, 2024 for the Grade 8 Open House, an exciting night that Holy Cross students and teachers look forward to each and every year. Students were greeted by volunteers and the Holy Cross school mascot, Marty the Hawk. Future students had the exciting opportunity to explore what makes this school a vibrant community of learning, growth, and achievement, where students are respected and celebrated.
Holy Cross Presents...
L’Arche Daybreak: Find Your Purpose
By: Julia Yossiba
Everyone is unique and complete exactly as they are. This is a lesson the Grade 12 Philosophy classes learned on their field trip to L’Arche Daybreak. L’Arche Daybreak, founded in 1969, is a community in Richmond Hill that welcomes adults with disabilities to live independently and share their talents and gifts with others.
It's Spooky Season at Cross
A Spooktacular Spirit Week at Holy Cross
By: Kishan Kasotharan
Halloween Spirit Week at Holy Cross was filled with excitement, competition, and creativity, as students enjoyed several festivities set up by the student government over the week. The week kicked off with two events: "Who's Got It?" on Monday, October 28, and "Mummify Your Teacher" on Tuesday, October 29. The week started with "Who's Got It? ", a fast-paced scavenger hunt that tested the speed of the students playing.
Helping out Hawks...
Hawk’s Closet: Affordable Uniforms, Big Impact
By: Laura Oppedisano
On Thursday, November 14, Holy Cross’ Hawk’s Closet club began the year off strong with their first sales event! Hawk’s Closet is a student-led club that provides affordable, gently used uniforms to the school community. The club donates its profits to charities including ShareLife and SickKids, and also uses its profits to help families during the holidays.
Hawks on Their Spiritual Journey
Exploring Faith: Grade 11 Temple Tour Retreat
By: Candelaria Jaramillo
The Grade 11 Temple Tour Religion Retreat was an eye-opening and unique learning experience for all students involved. This retreat has been held consistently for years for all Grade 11 World Religions: Beliefs, Issues, and Religious Traditions class students. Visiting different places of worship and learning about each religion in person is a diverting switch-up from normal in-class lessons, leaving an undoubted...
The Pick of the Patch...
Holy Cross’s Homeroom Pumpkin Context
By: Madison Bruch
This year’s pumpkin carving contest was spectacular! (Or should I say, “spooktacular?”) There were so many amazing submissions, and this article will be showing all of them, including which class won the contest! As well as sharing some of the amazing costumes seen during Halloween!
Movember: Before & After
Mr. Wojnarski
Mr. M Panetta
Mr. Mattei
Mr. Texiera
